New Delhi, February 27
Ram Vilas Paswan today returned to the NDA fold after a gap of around 12 years, thus altering political equations in caste-sensitive Bihar. The alliance between his Lok Janshakti Party (LJP) and the BJP-led NDA was officially announced by BJP president Rajnath Singh.

According to the seat-sharing formula, the LJP will contest seven out of 40 seats in Bihar. Paswan’s political heir-son Chirag-believed to be the driving force behind the alliance from the LJP’s side, was present when the announcement was made.

BJP’s PM candidate Narendra Modi was missing while Rajnath Singh posed with Paswan and Chirag at his residence late this evening.

Rajanth said Paswan would soon meet senior leaders LK Advani and Modi and that he would also be present at the next Modi rally at Muzaffarnagar.

“The alliance marks the beginning of NDA’s expansion plans. The seat sharing has been finalised. The LJP-BJP alliance will benefit the NDA in Bihar and in the entire country,” he said.

Paswan credited Rajnath for his return to the NDA fold. He also declared his complete support for Modi saying, “The LJP is part of the NDA which has already declared Modi as its PM candidate.” Paswan said he was joining the NDA because “only it can help the country”.